Reorganisation of the Autonomic Nervous System

Canada Spinal cord injury (SCI) results not only in a devastating paralysis but is also associated with a myriad of secondary conditions including autonomic dysfunctions [1]. For example cardiovascular responses to orthostatic challenge and exercise following SCI are significantly altered. When able-bodied individual assumes standing position a typical blood pressure response associated with redistribution of blood within the body and approximately 500 ml transfers caudally to the abdominal and lower extremities vasculature. This typically associated with central baroreceptors activation, decreasing vagal tone t…